Community Planning Association of Alberta

The Community Planning Association of Alberta (CPAA) is a Canadian nonprofit organization focused on promoting and supporting community planning within the province of Alberta. Incorporated in 1977, CPAA serves as a platform to share knowledge, encourage collaboration, and enhance the practice of community planning among a broad range of stakeholders including professionals, students, and community members.

Mission and Activities

The mission of CPAA is to provide opportunities to share, promote, and encourage community planning across Alberta. The organization supports the development of planning education and professional practice through various initiatives. A key activity includes supporting annual scholarships awarded to planning students at Alberta’s major universities, such as the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, and University of Lethbridge. These scholarships aim to foster the next generation of community planning professionals through financial support and recognition.

Conferences and Events

CPAA hosts an annual conference that gathers planners, academics, policymakers, and community members to discuss contemporary issues in planning. The conference themes typically address a range of topics linking global trends to local planning challenges and opportunities. Notable speakers and experts in the field are featured at these events, facilitating discussions that advance the planning profession and community development in Alberta.

Governance and Membership

As a nonprofit organization, CPAA operates with a governance structure typical of similar associations, emphasizing member engagement and volunteer leadership. Membership is composed of planning practitioners, academics, students, and interested community members who share a commitment to advancing community planning.

Contributions to Community Planning

Beyond education and networking, CPAA plays an advocacy role by promoting best practices and encouraging innovative approaches to sustainable and inclusive community development. The organization serves as a valuable resource for planners and communities by fostering dialogue and offering support for planning initiatives throughout Alberta.

The Community Planning Association of Alberta continues to be an influential body in shaping the dialogue and practice of community planning, ensuring that Alberta’s communities are well-planned and resilient in the face of changing social, economic, and environmental factors.

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